ELIabroad Experiential Learning International

From the beginning, I felt that I had a lot of support from the ELI team in the United States. Not only do they provide an extensive pre-departure packet, I felt very comfortable calling them a number of times with questions/concerns and was always promptly informed and reassured.

One of my main concerns in going to Kenya was safety. Rosemary provides a VERY safe and secure home where my worries were quickly forgotten. Not only was it safe, it was also very well kept and in a good location for getting to anything you would need. I felt that Rosemary did a good job of orienting me to Nakuru and made sure that I felt comfortable in getting to my project.

During my time in Nakuru, I worked as a volunteer at the Provincial General Hospital. As another volunteer stated a few years ago, you cannot come expecting to have your hand held throughout the process. ELI places you at the hospital but it is really your decision as to how you want to utilize your time. The first few days were a bit stressful as I didn't know anyone; however, after making an effort to get to know the staff they really went out of their way to be accomodating. As a pre-medical student, I was able to do things at PGH that I never would have imagined being able to do in the United States. I was taught how to start IVs, give IV pain medication, give injections, assist in vaginal deliveries, and assist in surgery-to name a few. The hospital staff and medical students made sure that I was learning and getting good hands on experience. My biggest suggestion would be to not be afraid to ask to do things. If you do this, there is no way you will be dissatisfied with your time at PGH.

Overall I am leaving VERY pleased with my time in Nakuru- thank you ELI Abroad!